Using too much repellent may effect health

LANSING -- With the severe wet weather Michigan has experienced over the past few weeks, residents could see more mosquito activity. The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development offers mosquito mitigation tips and reminds consumers to exercise care when applying insect repellent.

Insect repellents are most often used to deter mosquitoes, biting flies, and ticks that are annoying and can pose a serious health risk. Excessive use of products containing diethyltoluamide (DEET), however, can result in adverse health effects, particularly in children, if not properly applied.

"If you're going to use an insect repellent, it's essential you follow the application guidelines listed on the bottle, especially on children, " said Keith Creagh, MDARD director.

"Michigan is home to 60 different species of mosquitoes, each of which are picky about who they feed on. They have the potential to spread diseases such as West Nile Virus, so consumers need to exercise precaution throughout the summer months."

Tips for reducing mosquito levels include:

Consider the use of non-chemical means to prevent biting -- screens, netting, long sleeves, closed shoes and slacks.

Practice prevention by eliminating breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Eliminate any standing water near the home, if possible.

Use biological controls for small lakes and ponds, such as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, available at many stores.

The American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Environmental Health recommends the following:

Repellents with DEET should not be used on infants less than 2 months old.

When using a repellent on a child, apply it to your own hands and then rub them on your child.

Avoid children's eyes and mouth and use it sparingly around their ears. Do not apply repellent to children's hands.

Do not allow young children to apply insect repellent to themselves.

Keep repellents out of reach of children, and do not apply repellent to skin under clothing.